National Guard GI Bill User's Guide

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GI Bill benefits are available for Selected Reserve servicemembers to help with education and training costs, this guide will help to explain the Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR). The guide topics include the following:

The Post-9/11 GI Bill for reservists and guard members who were called to active duty under federal (title 10) orders.

The MGIB-SR benefit is worth over $11,000. This amount is based on the current monthly full-time student payment rate multiplied by the 36-month limit. This "payment rate" automatically increases on October 1 each year. You get the increase no matter when you became eligible or start using it.

Note: Only VA representatives can answer specific questions about your GI Bill account. You can reach them at 888-GIBILL-1 or visit their website at benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Step-by-Step Application Instructions

Although the GI Bill application process can be time consuming it is relatively easy and worth the time invested. In most cases the process could take you four steps, or less!

Step One

Find a school that has VA-approved training or education programs. Be sure to ask the admissions counselor if the school meets the requirements to use the GI Bill. You can use the VA's School Comparison Tool to locate a school or institution that fits the bill.

Note: Most regionally and nationally accredited colleges and universities have VA-approved programs.

Step Two

Complete the Application for Education Benefits on the VA's vets.gov website.

Step Three

In most cases, the school will send your enrollment information to the VA regional office with jurisdiction over the State or area where you will train. This will expedite the process.

Within four to eight weeks you should receive a declaration of eligibility and a letter explaining your VA GI Bill benefits. Keep in mind that it is not uncommon to get a letter from the VA requesting more information. You will have to answer the Department of Veteran's Affairs requests to be determined eligible and complete the process.

Step Four

Once you begin receiving your benefit payments you will have to complete the VA's Web Automated Verification of Eligibility (WAVE) process each month to continue to receive your monthly benefits payments.

The WAVE is a simple process that requires you to either log-on to the VA WAVE website or call their toll-free number at 888-GIBILL-1. It only takes a couple of minutes, but you will not get your monthly payment until you do.

These four simple steps will lead to over $11,000 in education benefits. It's well worth the effort, so don't wait until it is too late, get started today!

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill